MAMA Cares is an important program of the Madison Area Music Association (MAMA). It helps musicians who are dealing with medical emergencies or family crises.
In December 2014, the Conaway family had a happy Christmas. But soon after, their lives changed. Their son Jacy got a rare bacterial infection in his brain. By New Year’s Day, his headaches got so bad that he had to go to the hospital. Jacy had brain surgery, and after 17 days, he was finally able to go home. Even though they had health insurance, the Conaway family still faced big financial problems. They lost work and had to cover copays and other unexpected costs.
In April 2015, Robert’s friends, Rick Tvedt (who founded MAMA) and Chris Wagoner (a member of Robert’s band, Moon Gypsy), set up a benefit concert at the High Noon Saloon to help the Conaways. Over 350 people showed up, and the family was deeply touched by their generosity. “It was one of the most humbling moments of our lives,” Robert said. Inspired by the support they received, the Conaway family started the MAMA Cares program. They contributed money and created the Jacy Ray Fund.
Since then, MAMA Cares has grown, raising money and donations to support more musicians in Madison when they need help. Thanks to the kindness of its donors, MAMA Cares continues to make a big difference for the musicians who give so much to the local music scene.
